Preparing the published article.
Second-Hand Robot Trading: What to Check
The economics work only if you inspect properly.
Inspection list
| Item | Method | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Backlash per axis | Dial gauge | Accuracy drift |
| Wrist cabling | Visual and bend test | The most common failure |
| Controller and battery | Alarm history, battery state | Zero point loss |
| Running hours | Controller logs | Unknown duty if absent |
| Spare parts | Confirm with vendor | Obsolete models |
Pricing the risk
Add refurbishment — cables, battery, lubrication, safety upgrade and recalibration — plus expected downtime, then compare with a new machine including warranty. Below roughly a 30% gap, new equipment is usually the better decision.